First Dance Steps: Contemporary dance in Mali

by Beckypublished on 30th March 2023

Lassina Koné is a dancer, choreographer and the artistic director of his contemporary dance company Don Sen Folo, meaning “first dance steps”. He wants to raise the profile of dance in Mali and also integrate traditional dances into his modern choreography. He and his company travel to Bancoumana village, where they meet tribal leaders, learn the traditional dance of the Donso hunters and perform for the community.

First Dance Steps, by filmmaker Ousmane Zoromé Samassékou, is a creative journey between ancient and modern artistry, showing a rarely seen side of Mali today. Ousmane Zoromé Samassékou is a multi-award-winning director and producer based in Mali. His feature documentary, The Last Shelter, won Grand Prize at CPH DOX in 2021 and has screened globally to great acclaim. He has made several films for Africa Direct.

Up Next

north-korea-kim-yo-jong
Could North Korea’s next ruler be a woman? North Korean leader Kim Jong-un’s sister, Kim Yo-jong, has an increasingly prominent role in the communist regime and some observers believe she is his natural successor. This 101 East documentary investigates North Korea’s most powerful woman.
nepal-wildlife-conservation
The number of rhinos in Nepal has grown to 752. The rise is attributed to one of the world's toughest anti-poaching approaches, mixed with innovative community-based conservation efforts. This 101 East documentary investigates one of the greatest conservation success stories in Asia and asks if it is sustainable.
Mazin-Grace-DJ-Set
With her glorious concoction of classic, deep and soulful house the senses are stimulated. Throw in some disco vocal house and the purge of inhibition is sensationally encouraged. The result; experiencing those moments of musical joy without reservation. MaZin Grace has one aim; to enthral you with the music and leave you wanting more. Watch her Live DJ Set streaming Worldwide on Millennium TV - Saturday 5th August 2023 at 7pm UK.
Rwanda-Amasunzu-hairstyles
Rwanda’s Amasunzu hairstyles are eye-catching sculptures of dramatic shapes, peaks and shaved partings. These once-famous styles were worn as a form of identity in pre-colonial times, with each hair design communicating information, messages and stories. The tradition died out but is making a comeback.
mexico-killzone-documentary
Michoacan state is an epicenter of Mexico's violence. While cartels, vigilantes & authorities fight, the population's trapped in the middle. Al Jazeera spent a month on the ground in the state to investigate.
tasmanian-tiger
Australia’s thylacine has been extinct for almost 100 years, but a group of the country’s scientists say they will have it roaming the wilds again in a matter of years. This 101 East documentary meets the scientists behind the ambitious project to bring thylacine back to life.